Ancient QiGong movement may rewire the brain to quiet chronic back pain

NCT ID NCT04164225

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Minnesota Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study explores whether practicing QiGong—a gentle mind-body exercise—can help people with chronic low back pain by altering brain regions linked to body awareness. Sixty adults with ongoing back pain will either follow a 12-week QiGong program or do low-impact core exercises. Researchers will measure changes in pain intensity, body awareness, and mindfulness using questionnaires and brain scans.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Qigong exercise
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug, mind-body approach for managing chronic low back pain.
What could go wrong: This is a small early study (60 people) comparing QiGong to another exercise. Results may not apply to everyone, and benefits may be modest.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Low Back Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

LOW BACK PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Children's Rehabilitation Center, 426 Church Street SE Room 302 - Brain Body Mind Lab Minneapolis, MN 55455
RECRUITING

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455, United States

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